10 underrated anime villains who deserved more screen time

Underrated anime villains play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative and testing the mettle of one's beloved heroes from the vast ocean of anime. They are the turbulent ambiance of the story. Some of them have too many sceneries while establishing their rationale as villains, while others are pushed to the back and do not create enough impact before they can have their share of the glory.

This is a note to some underrated anime villains: characters capable of immense mind games but sorely lacking in on-screen time. Their exciting backstories and motivations could have made them truly great figures with further refinement. So below is an exploration of such villains from the anime world.

Disclaimer: The ranking is in no particular order and solely expresses the author's opinion.

Neferpitou, Kugo Ginjo, and 8 other underrated anime villains who deserved more screen time

1) Neferpitou (Hunter x Hunter)

Neferpitou, a member of the Chimera Ant King's Royal Guard, is cat-like in appearance and disturbingly loyal to King Meruem. This is what makes him a fascinating villain. This character plays a major role during heart-wrenching moments like the tragic demise of Kite. Still, Neferpitou's internal conflict feels somewhat rushed.

With more screen time, fans could have better understood the character and seen the full extent of his power. Neferpitou is one of the most underrated anime villains and deserves more development.

2) Kugo Ginjo (Bleach)

Kugo Ginjo, the leader of the Fullbringers, had the potential to be a memorable antagonist in Bleach. In rebellion against the stricter rules of the Soul Society and with his complicated relationship with Ichigo Kurosaki, there is a huge scope of storytelling that the creator never fully exploited.

Given a little more attention to character development, he could have gone into villainy from that of a misunderstood anti-hero. An underrated anime villain whose story leaves viewers wondering about the missed opportunities for a richer narrative.

3) Chrollo Lucilfer (Hunter x Hunter)

The leader of the Phantom Troupe, Chrollo Lucilfer, is mysterious and alluring. His terrifying power only adds to his mystique. However, Kuroro's screen time is surprisingly minimal, leaving fans wanting to know more about his origins and motivations. The brief fight showcased his talent and strength.

Chrollo could easily be one of the worst villains in anime history if his story had more specific moments. Most fans agree that he is one of the most underrated anime villains who deserves to be explored further.

4) Muzan Kibutsuji (Demon Slayer)

Muzan Kibutsuzi (Image via Ufotable Studio)

Muzan Kibutsuji is the original demon and the calamity-causing genius behind an array of tragedies in Demon Slayer. However, his appearance is quite unusual, and much of his past remains hidden. Expanding on Muzan's transformation into a demon and his centuries-long reign of terror would have given him a deeper understanding of his own motivations.

Among the most underrated anime villains, Muzan stands out as a character who might get more screen time than he does.

5) Izaya Orihara (Durarara!!)

Izaya Orihara (Image via Brain's Base Studio)

Though not a villain in the classical sense, Orihara Izaya's chaotic nature aligns him to become a formidable opponent. He is very much intrigued by human psychology and loves creating chaos; still, his depth is left untapped for so much of it.

More screen time for his scheming and insights would have allowed him to develop much more adequately and enriched in Durarara. This would've given fans a better look into his complex character. It's this endlessly devious nature of Izaya that places him as one of the most underrated anime villains.

6) Seijuro Hiko (Rurouni Kenshin)

Hiko Seijuro isn't exactly a villain, but his role as Kenshin's guide shows his anger. His sword skills are unmatched, and his leadership style is a clear reflection of his character. However, his limited screen time left fans wanting more. Exploring his past and thoughts could have given the series more depth. Despite his unconventional actions, his nature makes him one of the most evil characters in anime.

7) Medusa Gorgon (Soul Eater)

Medusa Gorgon is the chilling, cunning, clever, and manipulative villain of Soul Eater. Though she's not on screen, her influence has advanced her in the backdrop, masterminding many conflicts throughout the series. However, the character ends up feeling a bit shallow and not quite fully realized, thus leaving unconfirmed motives and desires.

More episodes focusing on Medusa could have done much to strengthen her position and background, thus enhancing her status as one of the most underrated anime villains.

8) Shogo Makishima (Psycho-pass)

Shogo Makishima (Image via Production I.G)

Shogo Makishima, the provocative protagonist in Psycho-Pass, challenges a dystopian society with power and intelligence. His contempt for the social system adds to his intimidating appearance. However, the mysteries of his past and motivations remain unexplored. With an even bigger backstory and inner reflection, he could have achieved terrific status and would then fit as one of the most underrated anime villains, indeed.

9) Ragyo Kiryuin (Kill la Kill)

Ragyo kiryuin (Image via Studio Trigger)

Kill la Kill features an all-time memorable performance from Ragyo Kiryuin. The cunning matriarch of the Kiryuin family speaks power throughout the series. However, little is provided in the way of delving into her motives and story.

More screen time could have added depth to her character and enhanced the impact of the thrilling finale. Her unexplored potential seems to secure her a place among the various underrated anime villains that deserve far more cutting into.

10) Hody Jones (One Piece)

Hody Jones, the leader of the New Fish-Man Pirates, was predicted to be a charming villain in One Piece. Yet the arc was too short, and Jones himself now seems underconstructed. Analyzing his past and introducing the social struggles that drove him would have filled out his character and significantly raised the stakes in the conflict with Luffy and the crew. It is one short arc that seals Hody's fate as one of the underrated anime villains.

Final thoughts

These underrated anime villains were able to make an impact on their respective series. Although they did not get their due, fans were already captivated and mesmerized in the instances they were present. With continuous appearances through spin-offs, prequels, or adaptations, a whole new depth of experience could be brought upon these characters with the acclaim they deserved.

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Edited by Riya Peter